In this episode of “Inside the Helix,” Dr. Jason Schneider discussed the key items to think about as we transition from new vs. old crop ingredients. The discussion focused on controlling nutrient variation, production parameters, and understanding mycotoxin prevalence and mitigation.Av DNA Genetics

The down time between groups of pigs can provide opportunity for maintenance repairs, cleaning, and disinfecting. On today's episode of The Squeal, our guests share tips on how to prepare a barn for an incoming group of pigs. Our host, Erik Darrington (PIC Account Manager) is joined by Jason Pooley (PIC Health Program Manager) and Isaiah Spath (PIC…

Are you and your team prepared for cooler weather and the ventilation challenges that come with fall temperature variation? In this episode of “Inside the Helix,” Paul Faris discusses managing the barn environment during the fall transition period. Paul explains the challenges of managing ventilation during this time and provides recommendations sw…

In this episode of "Inside the Helix," Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham reviews both field data and trial results aimed at evaluating the timing of pig vaccinations. She and Brady McNeil, a co-investigator on the Production R&D committee for this study, compare livability, growth, and feed consumption between two pig vaccination programs and how the…

There are several moving parts when transporting weaned pigs from the sow farm to their next destination. The transition can be smoother if there is strong communication between the sow farm and the wean-finish site. There is always opportunity for these communication practices to improve, and our guests from Brenneman Pork share their experiences …

At DNA Genetics, the health of our multiplication herd is of utmost importance. Recently, large strides have been made to provide our customers with the best possible product in our L241 female. In this podcast, hear from Dr. Matt Ackerman, director of health for external multiplication, on these specific improvements and their impact on production…

On today's episode of The Squeal, our guests share their experiences on maintaing employee satisfaction to retain great employees. Our host, Ashley Hengen (PIC Human Resources) is joined by Chock Booher (PIC Technical Services, Wean to Finish) and Jorge Cajamarca (PIC Technical Services, Female Reproduction) as they walk through different scenarios…

Understanding PRRS shedding patterns in our sow herds may help us to create and refine strategies during PRRS elimination attempts that can shorten herd closure times and increase chances of success. This podcast by Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham, Director of Health for DNA Genetics Nucleus and Pillen Family Farms, reviews two case studies that ex…

There's no doubt that hiring and retaining labor is an ongoing challenge for the swine industry. On today's episode of The Squeal, our guests share their experiences with successful training opportunities and tools to onboard new employees and provide continued trainings for experienced employees. Our host, Ashley Hengen (PIC Human Resources) is jo…

For a swine breeding program to be sustainable, balanced selection criteria should consider both the biology and the economics of animal performance. In this episode, Dr. Randy Borg will explain how maintaining this balance, and focusing on these priorities, will create cumulative improvements that benefit producers. This balanced approach has prov…

Constructing a strong and productive placement plan can be critical to the success of a wean to finish or nursery operation. Joining us for part two of this series is Jim Lolkema with Belstra Milling and Isaiah Spath with the PIC Wean to Finish and Product Development teams. Our guests share their experiences of a successful placement plan with our…

Constructing a strong and productive placement plan can be critical to the success of a wean to finish or nursery operation. Joining us for this series is Jim Lolkema with Belstra Milling and Isaiah Spath with the PIC Wean to Finish and Product Development teams. Our guests share their experiences and knowledge of a successful placement plan and th…

Producers are always looking for ways to improve their operations and, thus, their bottom line. To identify key areas to focus on, you need to first understand where you fall in relation to your peers. In this episode, Dr. Steve Kitt, a swine nutritionist, discusses how to start benchmarking and some key metrics to look at to improve your bottom li…

This is part two of a two part episode series on weaned weight efficiency. Iowa State Univerity's Dr. Rodger Main (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodger-main-48b31078/), Seaboard Foods' Josh Flohr (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodger-main-48b31078/), and PIC's Nat Stas (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nat-stas/) discuss practical steps for improvement and …

In this episode of "Inside the Helix," you will hear from Dr. Iara Solar-Diaz, a geneticist with DNA Genetics, who will be talking about how training people impacts genetic progress.Av DNA Genetics

This two part episode series is on weaned weight efficiency. Iowa State Univerity's Dr. Rodger Main (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodger-main-48b31078/), Seaboard Foods' Josh Flohr (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodger-main-48b31078/), and PIC's Nat Stas (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nat-stas/) meet up to share thoughts on how to measure weaned weight …

The nutritional needs of our pigs change throughout the course of their life cycle. In this podcast, you will hear from Jason Schneider, a technical consultant with DNA Genetics, who will be discussing feeding strategies for sexually mature gilts and boars.Av DNA Genetics

PICs communications authority Tim Heiller (PIC Senior Account Manager) sits down to discuss effective communications, how you could improve, and what it could mean to you. At PIC, our goal is to make our customers the most successful pig producers by providing them with the best genetics. We know our business success depends on yours. Thanks for li…

As the U.S. swine industry has shifted more toward a Duroc sire in the last decade, some producers have noticed a difference in how the pigs transition from weaning to nursery. Hear from Dr. Amanda Cross, director of genetic programs, on how the DNA Genetics Line 600 can improve your experience with starting your pigs properly in the nursery.…

We are continuing our warm weather breeding conversation, looking at checklists for preparation and planning for successful conception. Kevin Isler (Kalmbach Feeds Sow Production Supervisor https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-isler-24928a19b/), Stacey Voight (PIC Reproductive Technical Services https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-voight-3268aa150/), a…

Precision livestock farming can assist producers with the increased production demand and decrease resources. Lexi Meister, nucleus support with DNA Genetics, discusses the benefits and opportunities of precision livestock farming. Using these new technologies decrease subjectivity and increase accuracy of production.…

Time marches on and it's bringing summer with it. Is your breeding program ready? What does that look like for the summer months? Kevin Isler (Kalmbach Feeds Sow Production Supervisor https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-isler-24928a19b/), Stacey Voight (PIC Reproductive Technical Services https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-voight-3268aa150/), and Bra…

A fertile boar is an important component of any swine operation. In this episode, Dr. Ashley Hartman, research coordinator with DNA Genetics, explains her research focused on the terminal Duroc boar. Through her work, she's exploring pre-production boar management and its impact on future semen quality.…

In this Squeal episode, the group discusses the maximizing weaning performance, focusing on real practical advice from farrowing experts. Nicole Comstock (Carthage Systems https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-jockisch-67a16063/) and Juan Orozco (PIC) provide some perspective on how often eyes on the sow, what should we be looking for, and what to do …

Biosecurity protocols must be strictly followed in swine operations to prevent disease outbreaks. Having a truck wash system is an important component of a robust biosecurity plan. Ryan Strain, director of transportation with Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, explains what swine producers should consider as part of their truck wash protocol.…

In this Squeal episode, the group discusses the maximizing weaning performance, focusing on keys to animal care and micro environment management. Nicole Comstock (Carthage Systems https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-jockisch-67a16063/) and Juan Orozco (PIC) provide some perspective on getting gilts into and through the farrowing unit with a positive…

Through efficient semen usage, swine producers can reduce unnecessary expenses and minimize waste. Dr. Cory Faust, veterinarian and director of DNA Genetics' gene centers, describes strategies producers can implement to utilize their genetic supplies most effectively.Av DNA Genetics

Brazil is the world's fourth largest pork producing country. Recently, Glauber Machado, a Brazilian businessman, veterinarian and DNA Genetics distributor, was in the United States and visited with "Inside the Helix." He discussed reasons behind the industry growth, challenges and opportunities for Brazilian producers.…

In this Squeal episode, the group discusses the gilt development unit (GDU) as a large contributor to the success of the overall breeding program. Gilt development unit experts Jennifer Patterson (Research Associate at Livestock Gentec, University of Alberta, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-patterson-aa30a957) and Kendall Weger (PIC Technical …

For many swine producers, gilts are the future of their farms. Ensuring gilts reach their full potential is key in overall gilt development. In this episode, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham, veterinarian and director of health with DNA Genetics and Pillen Family Farms, describes DNA's research focused on stocking density. She also explains the impa…

What are the benefits of a strong veterinarian relationship? Dr. Deanne Hemker (PIC Health Assurance Veterinarian) and Jason Pooley (PIC Health Programs Manager https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-pooley-bbb8566/ ) share information on developing and maximizing your servicing veterinarian as a key biosecurity resource. They address how often your vet…

Walking the barns is an activity that many seem like second nature to most of the people doing it. But why do we need to walk the barns? How should it be done? And how often? Stacey Voight (PIC Technical Services https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-voight-3268aa150/) and Isaiah Spath (PIC Technical Services) share the purpose and intent of walking t…

While weighing gilts can be a tedious process, it's critical to the reproductive success of a farm. In this episode, Brady McNeil, multiplication business lead with DNA Genetics, explains why weighing gilts is so beneficial, and he describes various ways to complete this process.Av DNA Genetics

The Squeal wraps up a two part conversation on transportation handling. In this episode the panel talks about the tools and tips to move pigs down aisles and across the country. On the panel are Jason McAlister (CEO Cloverleaf Animal Welfare Systems https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-mcalister-b3b93381/) and Chock Booher (PIC Technical Service Team …

Swine producers want animals that are robust, meaning pigs that are resilient and can perform well no matter the environmental challenges that exist. In this episode, Dr. Tom Rathje, Chief Technical Officer with DNA Genetics, explains why improving robustness matters, and he describes how DNA Genetics is maximizing on this trait through its genetic…

Routine walk-thrus can help identify and troubleshoot potential problems producers may be experiencing on their farms. In this episode, Paul Faris, technical services specialist with DNA Genetics, explains why producers might schedule a walk-thru or troubleshooting visit, and he describes the process of these events.…

The Squeal begins an interesting two part conversation on transportation handling. In this episode the panel talks about the best use of facilities, training, and personnel. On the panel are Jason McAlister (CEO Cloverleaf Animal Welfare Systems https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-mcalister-b3b93381/) and Chock Booher (PIC Technical Service Team for …

For the New Year The Squeal provides a practical and achievable conversation with Tim Heller on great bosses and how to be one. Key great boss simple tasks: Day to day coaching, get the right people on your team, define and communicate what your team's role is in the company, and get results. Resources: * "Book: Radical Candor" - https://www.radica…

In the fifth and final part of our miniseries focused on DNA Genetics' "Five Pillars of Reproductive Care," Dr. Jason Schneider, technical consultant, describes sow farrowing care. In the segment, Dr. Schneider discusses recommendations on gestation lengths, feeding rates, farrowing assistance and farrowing room temperatures.…

In the fourth segment in a five part series focused on DNA Genetics' "Five Pillars of Reproductive Care," Dr. Amanda Cross, director of genetic program implementation, explains first 48-hour pig care. Dr. Cross says pig survivability is greatly impacted by the first two days of life. She also provides a simple checklist producers can follow to maxi…

The Squeal continues its focus on practical production information. This episode series looks at early pig care with an expert panel including Mandy Gerhart (Swine Nutritionist, JBS Live Pork, https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandygerhart/), Isaiah Spath (Sr. Validation Specialist & Wean-Finish Technical Services, PIC, https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaiah…

The Squeal continues its focus on practical production information. This episode series looks at early pig care with an expert panel including Mandy Gerhart (Swine Nutritionist, JBS Live Pork, https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandygerhart/), Isaiah Spath (Sr. Validation Specialist & Wean-Finish Technical Services, PIC, https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaiah…

Feeding for Body Condition Management is the third pillar in DNA Genetics' "Five Pillars of Reproductive Care." Joining the conversation on this topic is Brady McNeil, multiplication business lead with DNA Genetics. In this segment, Brady discusses body condition scoring methods, feeding rates and recommendations on target body condition.…

In part two of our series focused on the "Five Pillars of Reproductive Care," we discuss estrus detection with Dr. Steve Terlouw, director of reproductive physiology with DNA Genetics. Dr. Terlouw describes strategies producers can implement to ensure a smooth gilt breeding process.Av DNA Genetics

Gilt selection is fundamental to successful breeding outcomes. This episode continues the conversation on gilt selection with marking techniques and selection criteria with PIC's Pro Select Program. Joining us are PIC's Alison Bueltel (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-bueltel-744120150/), Malcolm Turley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/malcolm-turley…

Gilt selection is fundamental to successful breeding outcomes. Each selection today will affect your operation two years from now. Are you just providing a quantity or selecting to improve your program? Joining us for the next couple of episodes are PIC's Alison Bueltel (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-bueltel-744120150/), Malcolm Turley (https:…

"Gilt Development" kicks off part one of a five part miniseries focused on the "Five Pillars of Reproductive Care." These five pillars, developed by DNA Genetics, were developed to ensure producer success in gilt development, estrus detection, first 48-hour piglet care, sow farrowing care and feeding for body condition management. In this segment, …

We continue with the conversation on pork quality and consumer preference, focusing on tenderness and convenience discussions the industry should have, or continue. Joining the Squeal are Dr. Anna Dilger (University of Illinois, https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-dilger-80528938/), Dr. Clay Eastwood (PIC, https://www.linkedin.com/in/l-clay-eastwood-p…

As temperatures decline, swine producers may be focusing their efforts on winter ventilation. In this episode, Andy Jakubowski, a director with Pillen Family Farms, discusses strategies producers can implement to ensure pigs are healthy and comfortable throughout the winter months.Av DNA Genetics

Swine producers have long strived to optimize growth and reduce input costs. Over the last decade, DNA Genetics has been able to successfully reduce feed costs for producers by a 50 lb. bag of feed per pig in finishing. In this episode, Dr. Tom Rathje, geneticist and chief technical officer with DNA Genetics, describes what this means for producers…